Editor, The Detroit Free Press:

 

Thank you for the June 13 editorial "Update recipe for food stamp program." It pointed out that the minimum allotment of the program is $10 a month, but that figure does not tell very much.

 

A better figure would be the average benefit received by those in need. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Web site, in 2006, the average benefit was $94.27 for the 26,672 people participating in the program. Those who receive less than average earn higher wages, and thus have less need.

 

To claim that it is out of the reach of Americans on this program to have "an apple a day" is very misleading. A healthy diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains can be obtained with the current supplemental $100 per month.

 

James Allison